Key Blanks are "keys" to Locksmith Keys!

In the mechanical engineering field we are quite familiar with the term "blanks" as it is widely used for many fabrications for automobile, pumps, valves, screws, and similar outlets. For a locksmith keys that s/he uses are generally derived from key blanks that serve the basic raw material for cutting the bits or profile turning the locks to open smoothly. The process of duplicating or cutting new keys is wide spread in many parts of the world and can be seen at various shopping centers or malls as a small shop catering to the general public or organizations. One will realize that duplicating or cutting new keys is a very risky job since it deals with the security of establishments and material. Key blanks can thereby be used for illegal activities also and this is one of the most worrying aspects of the locksmith's trade.

Apart from the foregoing security aspect of key blanks it is also quite common to manufacture these raw key shapes to suit particular purposes that includes most frequently an attractive message promotion or celebrity, product advertisement, landscape, or popular site for tourists etc. These blanks are not just good to look at they provide the much needed security and identity to the keys cut from them. There is no limit to the imagination that key makers employ for printing the key blanks with figurines, photographs, landmarks, automobile pictures, Hollywood stars, guitar and other sporting items images etc. They all invariably carry a "do not duplicate" mark that warns the key maker to ensure complete safety and security for the person requesting a duplicate key. If you ever entered a key lab (as it should be known in reality) at a mall or a shopping complex you will see a variety of key blanks that are aimed at different identities for diverse applications.

Cutting key blanks in a key cutting milling equipment or "bitting" is serious business! One needs extensive security in this profession as your locksmith will obviously tell you since anyone can get hold of a key or a blank and get a duplication done for a not too social activity!